Cinderella – The Rose Theatre

The Rose Theatre hosts Chris Bush and Roni Neale’s Christmas characterisation of Cinderella featuring a cast of professionals and the young company. What strikes you immediately is the set, with its small compact house, with its larder fridge, cereal boxes, chairs emulating stepping stone access to the attic bedroom above. The illusion of a fully functional home was truly amazing. Throughout the production the revolving house becomes the scenes of the pumpkin carriage, the castle and the forest. A clever use of the staging and lighting that enabled a sense of magical wonder, credit to Ryan Dawson Laight.       

The young cast kick off the show with lanterns and ensemble of “Where does the time go”. A strong start to open Act 1 and into the story of Ella played by Maddy Hunter a young girl at home with her father, Ella’s stepmother and their newly born twin daughters. It’s Christmas and the family are preparing for a ‘vegan’ Christmas dinner, unlike traditional Christmas’s Ella is unaccepting of the life she now finds herself in. Rebellious and sad she wishes herself to be somewhere else. Her wishes are granted as the three magic fairies enter to take her to the Kings Town Ball to meet Prince Chadley Joaquin Pedro Valdes. 

Act 1 moves fast with quick set changes, as Ella, Buttons and her Three mice, The Cat are all transformed and transported by ‘fairy magic’ to the princes’ kingdom. The story lines follow in the essence of Cinderella, and this was clear to see. The ugly sisters, the wicked mother. cinders and the prince characters are all present.  

However, it didn’t flow well between the scenes, it felt abrasive at times and the singing although some beautiful ballads was a little forced. The lyrics became lost amongst the loud vocals from some of the other cast’s members during the scene. The acting and singing appeared a little rushed, possibly nerves which was a real shame. This could well improve as the run continues until January 2026.

Act 2 was very much in the same vein, and it just felt too loud for the small Rose Theatre. The jokes although in true panto style were somewhat corny, they all didn’t land quite so well. There were references to sustainable living and ‘Bro’ ‘Oat milk in my tea’ familiar phrases for younger audiences. The Three Mice Bobbidi, Bibbidi and Brian’s obsession with cheese provided some adorable quick-witted moments. Their idea to run a cheese shop utterly flawed, as they are reluctant to allow their customers to take the cheese away. “This is not a sustainable business model” barks Buttons played by the wonderful Arthur Polidora Williams. Standout moments came from Mr Bingles Jack Fernie, the three fairy’s and Lilith/Lady Dungeness Kara Lily Hayworth. Memorable enjoyable songs “The witching hour” What tomorrow brings” and many more that contributed to a pleasant soundtrack.    

The writing, the set and this young company steer Cinderella right into the present. It may not suit audiences looking for a traditional Cinders panto, but it does offer an alternative take on a true fairytale classic.   

Writers Chris Bush & Roni Neale

Director Owen Horsley

Music, Orchestrations & Musical Direction Matt Winkworth 

Set & Costume Designer Ryan Dawson Laight

Commences at 7.30pm duration 2hrs with an Interval suitable for all ages under 14yrs 

Run November 26th 2025 – 4th January 2026

Booking Link: https://www.rosetheatre.org/whats-on/cinderella-14tr

Reviewer: Michelle Knight

Reviewed: 4^th December 2025  

North West End UK Rating: